Li Yu Fu is on his way to being a serial entrepreneur. He has not yet graduated from university and has already started three companies in partnership with his and other universities.
What’s your story?
I have been studying aerospace engineering since 2014 at Nanyang Technology University and leading two business groups concurrently. I started my own business as an engineering student because I was born into a businessman family. I heard the concept, “entrepreneur” at the age of 9 and the seed planted. After O-levels, I choose the most advanced technology as my major, Polytechnic. Although I achieved a gold medal for my Polytechnic studies, I am obsessed with my Minor in Entrepreneurship class at NTU and it is here, I realised, my dream is to be an entrepreneur.
What excites you most about your industry?
Marketing is the foundation of all types of business. Today, with the development of Internet industry, more inspiring business models are blooming which creates vast opportunities in the marketing industry. I believe, with a truthful heart, I can achieve big in this industry.
What’s your connection to Asia?
I was born in China and studied in SG for 6 years. I have business mentors from Shanghai, Singapore and Thailand.
Favourite city in Asia for business and why?
Singapore – it provides a level platform for all business players. All universities are creating the entrepreneurial environment for students in campus and off campus. The time is now!
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
Be humble and be strong.
Who inspires you?
My first Minor in Entrepreneurship teacher, Mr Jason Ho.
What have you just learnt recently that blew you away?
There is no free lunch in business. My mentor taught me not to do free work for other companies. You must value yourself. You think you can do free work to close a deal but if you do, you will never close the deal.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
I would have formed a solid team before I took my first step.
How do you unwind?
I swim and watch drama.
Favourite Asian destination for relaxation? Why?
Ji Nan. That is my hometown and all my childhood memories are set in stone in that city. I can let go of all my stresses when I am home with my parents.
Everyone in business should read this book:
The Tipping Point
Shameless plug for your business:
CreateOne Ptd Ltd is initiated by undergraduates from NUS, NTU, SMU and SUTD. We focus on youth who have talents and entrepreneurial spirits. Under CreateOne Pte Ltd, our projects are Singapore University Circle (SGUC), Global Elite Achiever and Fox Marketing Solution.
SGUC is the first online platform that solely serves the interests of all university students.
Global Elite Achiever provides various camps for students to experience the Singapore University life and enhance individual’s soft skills. We also offer workshops for professionals including marketing, crowdfunding, decision-making and other topics.
Fox Marketing Solution provides exclusive marketing solutions for start-up companies and SMEs.
How can people connect with you?
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yufu.li.9
Instagram: OKONEYOUFU
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yufu-li-25468337?trk=hp-identity-name
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This interview was part of the Callum Connect’s column found on The Asian Entrepreneur:
Callum Laing invests and buys small businesses in a range of industries around Asia. He has previously started, built and sold half a dozen businesses and is the founder & owner of Fitness-Buffet a company delivering employee wellness solutions in 12 countries. He is a Director of, amongst others, Key Person of Influence. A 40 week training program for business owners and executives.
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